Roger Graulty

1) How long have you been modeling? How long have you been a TCAH member?

I have been modeling since I was eight or nine years old. I got hooked earlier than that when someone gave me one of those old Polaris Missile Sub kits--the one with the complete interior and the spring loaded nuke missile. My Mom built it sans paint but I loved the thing just the same. When the 1/96 Saturn V kits were released, my brother and I each got one--our older brothers built these for us--I can still smell the paint!

2) What was the first model that you built? What do you remember about it?

This would have to be either the old MPC 1/72 scale fighter kits (the ones with the different markings in profile on the box) or the Revell "Memphis Belle" kit in 1/72. Built these without paint--something my dad probably suggested since new carpet is expensive! The thing I remember most about the MPC kit is that the clear parts were missing--Boo Hoo!

3) What is the last Model you have built? What do you remember about it?

The last model I have built is the Tamiya P-47D "Razorback". It impressed me as the finest engineered kit I have ever seen. I can't say enough good things about this kit!

4) Do you have a theme (or themes) to your modeling collection?

I would have to say anything military--with an emphasis on WW II. I enjoy all military aircraft and try to stay in 1/48th scale. I have a fascination with armor as well--mostly Shermans and anything German from WWII. I have been working on a couple of plank-on-frame ship kits and well. I am in the very early stages of building a 1/96th scale model of the USS Providence. My dad served on this ship in late WWII and I am building it as a tribute to him.

5) What's your favorite aircraft and why?

Favorite bomber--the B-17G--I had romantic notions of flying one of these monsters through FLAK and fighter-filled skies on my way to disrupt Nazi Germany's war machine. Oh that box art--it makes war look so fun!

Favorite fighter--the FW-190 (all variants)--One often measures one's self by the strength of one's adversaries. This one is a lethal foe for my B-17 and looks really cool at the same time.

Favorite aircraft I have flown--the T-38--Like my first girlfriend she has a slender waist, long legs and turns heads wherever she goes. This was fun to fly and could get you there before you knew you had left!

6) What has been your favorite kit or model you have built? Why?

Monogram's big B-17G--all that detail and Shep Paine's diorama suggestions right in the box! Also stems from that desire to go to war in one--see #5. I got six, yes six of these for Christmas the year they came out--nice to be the youngest of six kids who all listened when I told them what I wanted for Christmas! Mom gave me the 6th.

7) How many kits have you built?

I would guess that I have built in the neighborhood of 150 models over the years. The collection is considerably smaller than that--so many went the way of the firecracker or the BB gun. Others were left behind, given away or simply thrown out during the many moves I have made since going away to college.

8) How many un-built kits do you have?

My wife thinks I have them all but the real number is about 200. Many armor kits in 1/35th, 1/72 and 1/15th. Aircraft mainly in 1/48th with some 1/32 and 1/72nd thrown in.

9) Is there anything else you want us to know?

This hobby of obsession if you want has led me to where I am today. As a kid I dreamed of two things--flying real airplanes and someday, working for a manufacturer of model kits. I have been fortunate to realize both of these dreams. I spent fourteen years in the USAF flying T-38's, E-3's, T-37's and the TC-18E (Extra credit for anyone who knows what that is!) I left the USAF to fly for Northwest and despite the miserable nature of the industry, I still love the job. I have also managed to find my self as a pattern maker for a major resin manufacturer. I used to do lots of resin casting and managed to make some money with a small product line. Sold the mess to the guy I work for now. I manage to do about three major projects a year for him and no messy resin! He does all the manufacturing.

I am lucky to have a beautiful wife and three busy kids to compete for my hobby time. My wife even has been supportive of this hobby. She never complains when I drag her to museums around the country. Eventually I'm sure she won't mind hitting some of the sites in Europe--She usually finds places to shop--keeps her from getting too tired!

10) What other hobbies do you have?

I paint watercolors, do some wood working, try to play the guitar, sail when I can find the time, travel to museums and other fun places.